Boston Stump hosts young talent in national Cranmer Awards competition
Young people from across Lincolnshire showcased their skills in reciting the Book of Common Prayer at diocesan heat hosted by St Botolph’s Church, Boston.
Read the storyTime to grow
A church flower festival at All Saints Church, which was filled with the sights and scents of the season, attracted an unprecedented turnout in the heart of Gainsborough.
As a celebration of God’s creation, harvest and music, the project involved teamwork between the congregation, community, schools, charitable organisations, businesses, and industry. The event – which was a whole year in the planning – was led by a small committee and Pauline Foster, NAFAS National Teacher.
The plans were made a reality thanks to support from the Gainsborough Town Council, as well as sponsorship from local businesses, congregation, community and the Diocesan Transformation Fund. They helped to make the festival a free and welcoming experience for everyone who visited.
Plans and petals
In preparation for the flower festival, workshops were held so people from across the community could to develop the designs led Pauline Foster and her team.
During the festival All Saints’ bellringers rang a quarter peal, and music was provided by a team of organists and pianists. Six local schools displayed artwork and the church’s own Mini Messy Church and Little Saints’ also produced their own display.
Sustainable faith
The festival also reflected the church’s commitment to caring for creation and its ongoing Eco Church journey, supporting the wider Church of England’s ambition to reach Net Zero.
It had such an appeal that the local butcher dedicated a sausage, affectionately named the ‘Holy Rose Mary’, to the festival. There was a donation to the church for each pack sold. Unsurprisingly, it proved very popular, and is still on sale.
The flower festival concluded with a very well attended ‘Primary Bangers’ closing service.
Praise for the project
Revd Canon Steve Johnson, Team Rector of the Parish of Gainsborough and Morton, said:
“It brought so many people working together and the church looked fabulous. I was astounded by the energy and enthusiasm that went into planning the festival. A local butcher dedicating a sausage to the event is probably a first for any church in Lincolnshire.”
Sarah Spencer, Diocesan Mission and Discipleship Officer, provided guidance to the church team as they applied for the Transformation Fund. She said:
“It is great to see all the energy, vision, creativity, imagination and planning pay off in such a spectacular way. The team even grew some of their own flowers, celebrating the season while building connections with local growers.”
More information
The Diocesan Transformation Fund supports churches across Lincolnshire as they develop new ideas for mission, community engagement and growth. Find out more by clicking or tapping here.
All Saints, Gainsborough welcomes everyone and is a beautiful building filled with great people. Find out more by clicking or tapping here, and you can also visit the Team Parish Facebook Page.